8 End-of-Summer Must-Visit Destinations

As summer is flying by (can someone please explain how it’s already June?), the Instagrams of world journeys are at an all-time high, FOMO is setting in and you’re counting down the days until winter rears it’s ugly head. Never fear, traveler, it’s not too late for you to spice up the dog days of summer this August and September. Here’s our list of European hot spots you need to hit before the summer ends…

1. Munich, Germany

We’re kicking off the list with the biggest party in Europe, Oktoberfest! Head to Munich in September for the celebration of the season. Featuring 500-year-old beer recipes, lederhosen, pretzels as big as your face and a future of friends from around the world formed in a beer tent, you’re sure to end your summer with a bang.

If Edinburgh could be summed up in one word, it’d be “magic”. From the countless Harry Potter sites, including the castle that inspired Hogwarts, to the narrow, twisting streets, the charm of Edinburgh is one of a kind. Each August, the magic really comes to life with the biggest arts festival in the world, Fringe. With over 50,000 performances ranging from sword juggling on the street to circus acts to traditional theater, this is a unique experience you don’t want to miss.

Why go to a pool party in your friend’s backyard when you can attend the ultimate bath party in Budapest? Known for their thermal baths, Budapest is also known for epic parties. On most Saturdays, you can hit the famous Szechenyi Baths for laser light shows, club music and dancing for a spa-day par-tay to end your summer.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Paros is an Ultimate Break favorite. White sandy beaches, crystal clear water and endless nightlife—Paros is an island paradise. Head there in August and September to unwind without the crowds. As “real life” picks up again in the fall, you can rest easy in Greece at the end of the summer season when it’s a little less crowded.

See one of Europe’s most visited and iconic cities wind down after its peak summer season. As fall starts to set in, Paris turns more docile and more beautiful (if that’s even possible). Travel in August and catch the tail end of the excitement from summer, or wait until September to soak in the calm, natural state of the city, just like the locals. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

Year round, Amsterdam has a pretty temperate climate, but August and September are typically the sunniest. As the busy season dies down for the summer, you can continue the party in August and September with art and music festivals as well as biking throughout the city as the Dutch do.

According to us, backed by US News & World Report, September is among the best months to visit Venice. As the weather cools and other travelers vacate the city, Venetian local life is rejuvenated. The city is slowly sinking, so now is the time to see it before rising tides take over.

Summer is prime-time to visit Prague for travelers from around the world. Waiting until late August or September means fewer crowds with equally warm weather. Never fear, you can still beat the heat on the banks of the Vltava River. In September, some of Prague’s most exciting festivals come to life.